When visiting Italy, there are certain traditional dishes you must try. Not only are these Italian delicacies delicious, but they also showcase the culture and history of the region you are visiting.
10 Must-Try Traditional Italian Dishes
Italian classic cuisine is known for its pizza, pasta dishes, and sauces such as marinara or bolognese. While these are the mainstays of Italian cooking, there are many other delectable options you should explore while in Italy.
1. Pasta E Fagioli
: From Emilia-Romagna and Campania, this hearty soup is composed of tiny pasta, beans, olive oil, onion, garlic, and tomato paste. It's the perfect way to get your daily serving of Italian vegetables while providing comforting nourishment after a long day hiking in the mountains or exploring new towns.2. Lasagna
: one of Italy's beloved dishes, lasagna is composed of layers of flat and wide pasta topped with sauce and besciamella (white sauce). Though traditionally served in Bologna, you can find great lasagna in other regions as well.3. Tortellini
: Famous button-shaped pasta filled with meat, cheese, nutmeg, and egg is a must-try when visiting Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. You can have this dish cooked in broth then top it off with sage butter or stir-fried to perfection!4. Polpette
: traditional Italian meatballs made with minced meat, eggs, and Parmigiano cheese should not be missed during your Italy vacation. You can find them in restaurants and street vendors across the country.5. Gorgonzola
: this veined blue cheese is a beloved Italian delicacy. Often served alongside caprese salad (sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and olive oil), you may also find it as a topping for pasta or sauces.6. Balsamic Vinegar
: this exquisite Italian vinegar is a must-try when in Modena or Reggio Emilia, where it's traditionally made from grape must. Pair it with pasta, fish, or grilled meats for an unforgettable culinary experience.7. Pork
: This meat is a staple in Italian households and should not be missed while there. Usually air-cured for its delicate yet mellow flavor, you can enjoy it sliced up as an accompaniment or in pasta dishes. It's popularly featured as part of sandwiches but you may also find it as part of other dishes like bruschetta.8. Bollito
: this hearty Italian meal of boiled beef and other meats from Piedmont is a must-try for any meat enthusiast. This hearty Italian dish is often served at family gatherings or special occasions.9. Orecchiete
: Shaped like orecchini, these tasty Italian treats are still handcrafted in Puglia. A great snack to grab while on the go, they can be stuffed with veggies or fresh cheese for added flavor and convenience.10. The apfelstrudel
: an apple-filled cake popular throughout Northern Italy can be found throughout the Northern region. This Germanic pastry usually has cream, butter or fruit on top for extra enjoyment.Apfelstrudel is a delicious treat traditionally enjoyed during the fall and winter months in Italy. Unlike American desserts, Italians typically save some for dessert at the end of their meal - so you can indulge without feeling guilty about it! A few slices will satisfy your sweet tooth without packing on too many extra pounds!